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Dispute Over Panama Canal Sovereignty.. Panama's President Rejects Trump's Statements
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Trump's statements reveal American desire to regain influence over strategic waterways to counter increasing Chinese penetration
Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino condemned statements by his American counterpart Donald Trump regarding regaining control of the Panama Canal, emphasizing that the strategic waterway will remain under Panamanian sovereignty.
Mulino stressed in a statement published on social media platforms that "the Canal is Panamanian and will remain so," in direct response to Trump's statements.
The American presidential inauguration speech included Trump's announcement of his intention to regain control of the canal, describing its handover to Panama as a "foolish gift" that should never have been given.
Trump heavily criticized the canal's management, accusing Panama of breaking its promises and violating the spirit of the treaty, pointing to the imposition of exorbitant fees on American ships and unfair treatment.
The U.S. President raised concerns about increasing Chinese influence in the region, asserting that China effectively runs the canal, adding "We didn't give it to China, we gave it to Panama, and we'll take it back again."
This diplomatic escalation represents a radical shift in U.S.-Panamanian relations, which could herald potential tensions in the region.
Levant-Agencies
